Battambang Circus

Battambang is home to Phare Ponleu Selpak, a common NGO which gives youths from deprived backgrounds the chance to channel their energies into learning circus skills such as for example juggling, clowning and acrobatics whilst raising awareness of issues such as for example HIV/AIDS, landmines and child rights. It started back in 1986 in the refugee camps on the Thai border with simple drawing workshops. The experiment continued following the refugees returned to their homelands in Battambang and Phare Ponleu Selpak now has a worldwide reputation. Performances in the big top are held on Thursday evenings but additionally at other times. Worth a visit, other items also include traditional schooling, drawing, music, dressmaking and a community leisure centre.